If you are a Westfield resident and are going on vacation or will be away from your home an extended period of time, you may request to have additional patrols. Officers will provide extra patrols as time permits and will contact you or your designated emergency contact if a problem arises.
Please note that the frequency of home checks is dependent upon call volume. Active calls for service will take precedence. Click here to fill out an online form for the Vacation Security Check.
You may also call in a request during normal business hours, which are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, at (317) 804-3200.
Here are a few tips to help keep your home safe while you are away:
- Have a trustworthy friend or family member watch your home while you are away.
- Double check that all your doors and windows are locked and set your alarm system, if you have one.
- Set security lights on a timer. If you have someone coming by, have him or her turn different lights on and off to make it look like you’re home.
- Stop your mail and paper for the week so it doesn’t pile up outside or in your mailbox. Alternatively, have someone you trust stop by and take it inside.
- Have a neighbor, or whoever is watching your house, put the garbage out on collection day.
- Park your vehicles in a locked garage, if possible. Make sure they are locked and do not leave any valuables in the vehicle, especially if the vehicle is parked outside.
- Don’t share details of your vacation on social media sites. Turn off location services on your mobile devices, if you use any of the mobile apps. Wait to share photos until you return. Pictures taken with a GPS-ready camera or phone may have your location embedded in it. Even if you trust your friends, many times their friends and friends of friends can all see your information also.
- Be prepared for the worst. Sometimes, even with all the preparation, a break-in can still happen. It’s a good idea to have an inventory of all your important items. List all serial numbers and take pictures for insurance purposes. It never hurts to be prepared.
Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. If you suspect someone is trying to break into a home, call 911.